The Seattle Mariners opened their stadium to an unexpected guest: the United States men's national soccer team, who were in town to prepare for a World Cup round‑of‑16 match against Belgium.
The U.S. side had just defeated Australia in the group stage, and the Mariners' fans greeted them with a roar as each player was introduced on the field.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino, ever the showman, took the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch, a moment that turned into a brief coaching clinic when backup goalkeeper Matt Turner offered advice on proper throwing mechanics.
The ceremony highlighted Seattle's love of both baseball and soccer, with the Mariners' roster spanning six nations and many players having grown up kicking a ball before picking up a bat.
Center‑fielder Julio Rodríguez, a Dominican native, took the opportunity to greet French World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann, underscoring the global connections that sports can forge.
Fans gave the loudest ovation to midfielder Cristian Roldan, whose name echoed through the ballpark as a symbol of the team's diverse heritage.
Seattle's Dual‑Sport Identity
The city's streets are lined with stadiums that host both baseball diamonds and soccer pitches, a blend that has cultivated a unique fan culture where a home run can be followed by a goal celebration.